Childhood Classics Revisited at Goodwill

When nostalgia starts to sneak in, it can be hard to resist the pull. We all look for ways to relive our favorite moments from the good ol’ days, but often feel guilty when relics simply hang around and take up space. The great news is, you don’t have to hold back when you’re strolling through Goodwill and spot something you had as a kid. Take it home and put it to use! Here are a few of our favorite childhood classics revisited with a practical DIY twist…

Image via debbie-debbiedoos.com

Ah, the little red wagon. While our delightful days of being pulled in a parade or through a pumpkin patch are over, this playful pastime from years gone by can still serve a purpose in our daily lives. I’ve seen them used as adorable decorative porch planters, but until Goodwill Industries of Southwestern Pennsylvania (Pittsburgh)’s shared this unique shelf idea on their Goodwill Renews! Pinboard, I hadn’t really thought outside the box. Now I’m imagining all of the fun DIY makeovers a Radio Flyer could be given—a side table, a toy box, or a footstool to name a few! When you’re using secondhand supplies for your creative endeavors, you don’t have to feel guilty about altering them. They’ve lived a good life before you and you’re extending that life even further by keeping them out of the landfill. Goodwill organizations create thousands of jobs and contribute to the economic health of communities while preserving resources and the environment in exactly this way!

Image via polkadotchair.com

I don’t think there’s a kid on Earth…okay, well, at least in the U.S., who didn’t have a plain pair of plimsoll or Converse shoes. As the decades stack up, these childhood classics still haven’t gone out of style! But if you’re looking for a modern twist like the patterned versions we see in stores today, you don’t have to break the bank on a new pair of brand name basics. Instead, head over to your local Goodwill to thrift a set then add your own embellishments. A blogger named Amy guest posted on Polkadot Chair with her foolproof DIY polka dot plimsolls and I instantly knew the project was worth a share. You could also add stripes or, if you’re really talented, you could use fabric paint to brush on bright florals. Have fun with it! Childhood-you would insist upon that.

Image via goodwilltips.blogspot.com

And then there’s the ultimate kid acquisition: a bike. It was a symbol of freedom and adventure whether you grew up in suburbia or the sticks. Thanks to increased awareness of our environmental impact, these days a lot of grown-ups are channeling the kid inside for their morning commute by swapping four tires for two. Goodwill Industries of Michiana, Inc. (South Bend) is on top of this trend with some colorful DIY bike makeover ideas. They understand that since a person’s bicycle often feels like an extension of themselves, personalization is a big deal. The blog post features some classic additions (namely, ribbons on the handlebars) alongside crochet, spray paint, and duct tape updates which can even translate to grown-up approved decoration. I especially love their fun bike wheel photo display! Make sure you check out the full post for all seven makeover ideas.
Now it’s your turn: What was a quintessential item from your childhood? Could it be fixed up to fill a need—storage, footwear, or transportation—in your life now? Adding happy little memories like these into your daily routine might make your days feel more whimsical and shopping for project supplies at Goodwill is a great way to find inspiration!